IPHD began its humanitarian aid program in Guinea-Bissau in 2003. Between 2003-2005, IPHD provided grants to 306 small farmers to rehabilitate their farm land following the destruction of many small farmers during the last civil war. IPHD also pu water systems into two villages, and provided food aid to 10,000 people, mainly children and the infirm in hospitals and clinics. A leprosarium, near Bissau, the capital, was also helped. In 2006, IPHD began a multi-year school lunch program, with a strong malaria prevention program. Many children miss school during the school year due to several bouts of malaria.

Information about Guinea-Bissau:

• Area: 36,120 sq. km. Almost the size of Connecticut

• Highest elevation: 300 meters.

• Climate: Hot, tropical, humid.

• Population: 1.5 million.

• Infant mortality: 110 per live births.

• Life Expectancy: 46.6 years.

• HIV/AIDS prevalence: 10 percent.

• Infectious diseases: Country is classified as high risk – malaria, yellow fever, bacterial and protozoa diarrhea, hepatitis A, typhoid fever, schistosomiasis and meningococcal meningitis.

• Ethnic groups: Balanta (30%), Fula (20%), Manajaca (14%), others.

• Literacy: 42.4%. Female literacy is only 27.4%.

A recently drafted vulnerability study conducted by WFP clearly indicates the need for food assistance throughout the country. Considering that the CAR’s largest import item is currently food and that these imports fail to meet local demand, serves as further evidence that there is an immediate need for additional food aid. This initiative will not have a negative impact on local production, nor commercial imports since it targets HIV/AIDS victims and other needy families who have little or no purchasing power.